Looking for ways to lower your monthly electric bill without sacrificing comfort? The good news is that a few simple tools and home improvements can help you use energy more efficiently and keep more money in your pocket.
Here are several tools that can help.
BEAT THE PEAK
At Broad River Electric Cooperative, summer peak hours occur from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. when electricity demand is highest. By reducing or shifting energy use during this period, you can help lower your overall energy costs while easing demand on the electric grid.
SMART THERMOSTATS
Heating and cooling account for the majority of most household energy use. A smart thermostat can automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule, helping you avoid cooling an empty home. During the summer, consider pre-cooling your home before 3 p.m. and then setting the thermostat a few degrees higher during peak hours. Many smart thermostats can do this automatically, helping you stay comfortable while reducing energy use when demand is highest.
WATER HEATER SWITCHES & TIMERS
Your water heater works hard every day, but it doesn't necessarily need to operate at full capacity around the clock. A water heater timer or switch allows you to schedule when the unit runs, limiting water heater operation during peak hours.
POOL PUMP TIMERS
If you own a swimming pool, the pump may be one of the largest energy users in your home. Installing a timer allows the pump to run only when needed instead of continuously. By scheduling your pool pump to operate in the morning or late evening, you can reduce energy consumption when demand on the electric system is greatest.
FANS FOR ADDED COMFORT
Ceiling fans and portable fans are inexpensive tools that can help you feel more comfortable while reducing the workload on your air conditioner. Fans do not lower the temperature in a room, but they make occupants feel cooler. During warmer months, using fans may allow you to raise your thermostat setting by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
AIR SEALING & INSULATION
Sometimes the best energy-saving tool isn't a device at all. Air leaks around doors, windows, attic openings and other gaps can allow conditioned air to escape and outdoor air to enter. Sealing these leaks and ensuring your home has adequate insulation can significantly improve energy efficiency. Better insulation helps your home retain cool air throughout the day, making it easier to stay comfortable during the hottest afternoon hours.
These smart tools can help you use energy more efficiently, lower your electric bill and support a more reliable electric system for our community.